What to Look For in a Double Stroller
The best double stroller s develop with families and provide innovative features that keep kids at ease and content. This includes adjustable foot rests and a smooth ride on gravel, trails and old sidewalks.
Kerry loved the fact that the stroller was delivered in multiple boxes, but everything was well-labeled and easy to open. She also appreciated that the stroller is able to accommodate two infant car seats and it is able to be set up with a riding-board for older children.
Seating Options
Seating options are an important factor in determining whether or the family will buy a double stroller. You'll want to think about the ages of your children, their relative sizes and the seating configurations that are most suitable for your needs.
For example, if you have children of similar age and will be sitting side-by-side, you should consider a tandem stroller that has child seats that are attached to one another and doesn't require you to use car seat adapters, according to Alli Cavasino, a senior editor at Consumer Reports. They're typically larger than other types of double strollers, however they might not fit into standard door frames within your home.
If you have an age gap between your children you should consider a stroller with two seats that has the option to convert to a stand-and-ride model with a platform or small bench seat in the back for a kid who likes to just ride along or watch their sibling. These types of strollers can also be adapted to fit infant car seats if needed and are a great option for children who are 3-5 years apart, says Billingsley.
You should also take a look at the seat material, according to Billingsley. Certain fabrics are more air-conditioned than others, and they are also easier to clean. It's also important to consider how easy it is to fold your stroller for stowing or transporting to and from your car. "There's nothing more frustrating than buying your dream stroller only to discover that it's too heavy or big for your trunk," says the expert.
If you are seeking a low-cost alternative that can be configured in a variety of ways, then check out this award-winning stroller from Summer Infant. It comes with two toddler seats and the bassinet. It can be converted to a triple stroller by adding an additional seat or riding board. The seats recline and come with control mechanisms for the calf bar that allow them to adjust independently, which is perfect for when one child wants to sleep while the other one wants to take in the surroundings. It's also compact when folded down and easily fits in the majority of trunks.
Age ranges
Sit-and stand strollers are the ideal option for families with children who are close in age. They provide the comfort and convenience. They have a seat in front for toddlers or infants, and a bench, platform or another surface in the rear that allows older children to stand up or get off and on. These strollers are ideal for older toddlers and children however, they are not suitable for babies or children who do not have the balance and coordination to stand on their own.
A narrow tandem stroller can help you keep an eye on both kids at once and fit through tight spots like aisles of the grocery store that are crowded or family photos in the park. These models are often narrower than double strollers with side-by-side designs and are generally easier to maneuver, but they won't accommodate carseats for infants and generally don't have as much undercarriage storage.
If you plan on using a double stroller for a period of several years or even a decade, it's worth purchasing an item that can expand along with your children. Double strollers are more expensive than single ones, but if they're chosen wisely, you'll save money in the long run.
Our test participants put each of these strollers through a series of maneuverability tests and off-road adventures, and they found them to be simple to maneuver over different terrains. If you intend to use it in urban areas or in cities where sidewalks and traffic are prone to bumps, you might want something more durable and sturdy capable of handling rough treatment.
Double strollers are designed to last, however the seats may wear out sooner than you think or your children may outgrow them before they're ready for retirement. If you are on a tight budget, choose an option with a warranty of at least four years. It should last as long as it can.
User-Friendliness
It's crucial to ensure that the double stroller is easy to use by both children. That means comfortable harnesses for kids who are seated and handles that are easy to grab for toddlers who stand. The stroller can also be easily rolled and moved around obstacles and in tight spaces. The top-rated strollers from our Lab tests, such as the BOB Revolution Flex Duallie or Thule Urban Glide 2 Double, are among the easiest to navigate.
It's also important that a double stroller be easy to fold and put away. The most efficient models fold in two or three steps and are compact enough to fit in most trunks. It's also beneficial when the stroller is a versatile, with options to add an additional seat or ride-along board. Some strollers can accommodate infant car seats, so you don't need to wake your baby up to move them into the stroller when it's time to leave for home.
A quality double stroller is also sturdy and can be used on a variety of terrains. For instance, some strollers can be converted into a jogging stroller with an adapted front wheel and some can be used as an umbrella stroller. Some strollers come with a cargo bag that can be tacked to the back of the stroller to carry shopping bags and other items.
A tandem or side-by-side is an alternative to think about. Side-by-side strollers are typically larger than tandem models, and they aren't easy to maneuver through tight spaces like doorways and aisles of the grocery store. They are practical since they permit each child to enjoy the same view. They can also be easier to navigate through in stormy weather because they offer more coverage from the elements for both children.
Many parents opt to purchase an adaptable stroller that can be used by a baby and then converted to a double stroller once their children get older. After talking to parents, it became apparent that it is better to purchase the items you require now rather instead of trying to predict what you might need in the near future.
Storage
When looking for double-strollers, it's crucial to think about the amount of storage available and the dimensions. Many models have spacious accessible baskets that can store a large amount of items. Many models also have multiple cup holders for parents and seating configurations that can be reversed to provide the most legroom for children. Certain of these features could add to the price therefore, make sure to review the reviews and descriptions thoroughly.
The majority of double strollers are classified as tandem or side-by-side designs. Tandem strollers have two seats assembled on the same frame and are generally better suited for older children who have already learned sitting on their own. They also typically have a bigger storage basket than side-by-side models, though they can be a bit awkward or difficult to push when the front seat is reclined fully.
The side-by-side stroller comes with two separate seats that are placed side-by-side. They're typically best suited to infants or toddlers, who aren't yet comfortable with sitting independently. They are also more maneuverable and easy to push than tandem strollers. However, they typically have smaller storage baskets than tandem models and can be more expensive.
There are double strollers made specifically for biking or jogging. They're generally more expensive than all-terrain strollers, and have fixed front wheels which limit their flexibility. These strollers are only worth considering if you intend to use them in these activities.
Whether you're shopping for twins or an infant and a toddler, or another child who isn't quite ready to go out on their own, there's a great double stroller for you. The top options we've found in our tests are versatile, stable, and easy to use, with seating that grows as your children get older. Take a look at our top picks for the top double stroller that will accommodate your family whether you're looking for a tandem or one that accommodates your infant car seat.